Immunity Boost By Herbadiet Overview & Drug Interactions

Echinacea is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the daisy family and is native to cental and eastern North America. It is known for its purple, cone-shaped flowers. In traditional medicine, echinacea has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. It is believed to work by stimulating the immune system and helping the body to fight off infection. Some studies have suggested that echinacea may be effective at reducing the severity and duration of colds and other respiratory infections, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Turmeric is a commonly used spice and a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It is native to India and other parts of South Asia and is known for its bright orange-yellow color and its warm, slightly bitter flavor. In traditional medicine, turmeric is believed to have a number of health benefits due to its high content of antioxidants and other compounds, such as curcumin. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it is often used to treat a variety of conditions, including joint pain, digestive problems, skin disorders, and respiratory infections. Most dietary supplements that utilize turmeric standardize their products based on a specific amount of curcumin (curcuminoids) per dose. Additionally, turmeric supplements are often paired with black pepper extract (piperine) to improve oral absorption.

Andrographis is a type of plant native to Asia and is commonly used in traditional medicine. It is a member of the Acanthaceae family and is sometimes referred to as "Indian echinacea." Andrographis is believed to have a number of potential health benefits and is often used to treat infections, such as the common cold and flu, as well as other health conditions. Studies have shown that Andrographis contains a number of compounds, and dietary supplements are often standardized with a specific amount of one in particular, andrographolide.

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.

Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.

Astragalus is a genus of plants native to Asia and Northern Africa, and is known for its small, yellow or purple flowers and its long, tapering root. In traditional medicine, astragalus has been used to boost the immune system and treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. It is commonly referred to as an 'adaptogen', which are theorized to help the body resist stress.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, which is native to the southwestern coast of India. It is one of the most widely used spices in the world, and it is often utilized to add flavor and heat to a wide variety of dishes. In traditional medicine, black pepper is purported to have a number of health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. Black pepper is also used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as indigestion and bloating, and to boost the immune system. Black pepper is widely used in dietary supplements, specifically, an extract from black pepper known as piperine. Piperine can affect the absorption of many drugs, which is why it has a large number of reported interactions. Oftentimes, these 'interactions' are purposeful, such as when piperine is used with turmeric, to increase its absorption.

Propolis is a sticky, resinous substance that is produced by bees from digested tree buds and barks and is used to seal cracks and gaps in the hive as well as to protect against bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Propolis has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and it is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is often used as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions, including colds and flu, sore throat, and skin wounds. Some people also use propolis as a supplement to boost the immune system and to reduce inflammation. Propolis is also commonly used in commercial products, such as in chewing gum, cosmetics, creams, lozenges, and ointments.